Best steamy romance books that will set your heart on fire

Discover the best steamy romance books filled with passion and chemistry.

Illustration by Yifei Fang

By Hayu Andini and Novanka Laras

For readers who crave passion, chemistry, and emotional depth, the best steamy romance books are a must. These books are full of sizzling moments and powerful connections that will keep you glued to the pages. Whether you're into slow burns or intense passion, these best steamy romance books have it all.

In this article, we've compiled a list of some of the most memorable and steamy romance novels—old favorites and fresh new releases—that deliver heart-pounding emotions and steamy encounters.

The One in My Heart, by Sherry Thomas

The One in My Heart by Sherry Thomas is a top pick among the best steamy romance books. First published in 2015, this book still stands out as one of the most compelling romances set in the STEM field. Eva is a brilliant material scientist on the tenure track, and Bennett is a highly successful cardiothoracic surgeon. When the two meet after a one-night stand, sparks fly. Though they have no intention of forming a long-term connection, they end up in a fake relationship to help Bennett reconcile with his estranged parents. The chemistry between Eva and Bennett builds slowly but intensifies with every page. Sherry Thomas's beautiful prose ensures that the emotional and physical intimacy in this book is both poignant and sizzling. Their evolving relationship is a masterclass in character development, making this one of the most memorable books in the steamy romance genre.

Curvy Girl Summer, by Danielle Allen

Looking for a fun and steamy romance? Curvy Girl Summer by Danielle Allen is perfect. This book combines humor, a slow burn romance, and a healthy dose of steamy chemistry, making it a standout among the best steamy romance books. Aaliyah, the protagonist, is on a mission to find "The One." After lying to her family about having a boyfriend, she decides to meet new people on dating apps. Enter Ahmad, the bartender at her local bar. Their relationship begins as a friendship, but as they spend more time together, their emotional connection and sexual tension grow. The build-up to their romance is satisfying and sweet, with plenty of steam to keep readers hooked. The audiobook version is highly recommended, with narrator Wesleigh Siobhan delivering an exceptional performance that adds depth to the humor and sensuality of the story.

Scandalized, by Ivy Owens

For fans of celebrity romances, Scandalized by Ivy Owens is an exciting addition to the best steamy romance books list. The book follows Gigi, a journalist investigating a major story, and Alec, a famous actor with a troubled personal life. After an unexpected turn of events, Gigi and Alec end up sharing a hotel room, leading to more than just a physical connection. Their chemistry is instant, and the romance that blooms between them is both intense and passionate. This book stands out for its mix of celebrity romance and suspense, with plenty of steamy moments that evolve alongside the emotional arc of the characters. As their relationship deepens, the spice in the book feels earned, making it one of the most engaging and steamy reads on this list.

Heat and Run – Adriana Herrera

If you're into paranormal romance, Heat and Run by Adriana Herrera is one of the best steamy romance books for fans of the Omegaverse. This Sapphic polyamorous novella is a blend of steamy encounters and emotional intimacy, with the plot itself being heavily driven by the intense sexual relationships that develop between the three main characters. Melina, the protagonist, is stranded in a mountain lodge during a snowstorm with two women who provide her with both physical and emotional support. While the book is packed with erotic moments, the chemistry between the three women is what makes the story truly memorable. The Omegaverse setting adds an extra layer of intrigue and excitement, and readers who enjoy stories that push the boundaries of romance will find Heat and Run to be a standout addition to the best steamy romance books list.

Temple of Swoon – Jo Segura

A perfect adventure romance, Temple of Swoon combines action with steamy moments. Miri, an archaeologist, is leading an expedition through the Brazilian rainforest in search of the Lost City of the Moon. Rafa, who joins the crew as a photographer, has his own agenda and secretly hopes to sabotage the mission. However, as they spend more time together, a powerful romantic connection develops between them. This novel offers a balance of thrills and sizzling chemistry that make it one of the best steamy romance books for readers who love adventure and romance in equal measure. The high-stakes atmosphere, coupled with the undeniable tension between Miri and Rafa, makes this a truly unforgettable read.

Between Friends and Lovers – Shirlene Obuobi

Between Friends and Lovers is a must-read for fans of friends-to-lovers stories. Jo and Mal’s chemistry will pull you in as they navigate their romantic journey. After a birthday party goes wrong, Jo, a cardiologist, decides to give up her unrequited lifelong crush on her childhood best friend. She shifts her focus to Mal, a man who may just be the best fictional man ever created. The book’s exploration of emotional intimacy and growing physical attraction creates one of the most captivating and steamy romance arcs in recent memory. The connection between Jo and Mal is not only emotional but also incredibly sensual, making it a standout among the best steamy romance books.

Flirting With Disaster – Naina Kumar

In Flirting With Disaster, Meena and Nikhil are faced with rekindling a love story that never quite ended. After years of estrangement, Meena arrives in Texas to ask Nikhil for a divorce. But fate has other plans, and a hurricane leaves them stranded together. The book beautifully examines how love can evolve and rekindle in unexpected circumstances. The steamy scenes in this book are fraught with emotional baggage, which makes them even more intense and powerful. This heartwarming and sexy novel is one of the most emotional picks in the best steamy romance books list.

Marriage and Masti – Nisha Sharma

Nisha Sharma’s Marriage and Masti is a fantastic entry in the fake marriage trope. Veera and Deepak have been friends for a long time, both harboring unspoken romantic feelings for each other. When circumstances force them into a fake marriage, the intensity of their attraction grows, leading to passionate moments that will leave readers breathless. The slow-burn romance paired with intense yearning makes this one of the best steamy romance books of the year.

Silver Elite – Dani Francis

Silver Elite by Dani Francis is perfect for fans of dystopian romance. Wren, a psychic rebel, is forced to join an elite military training program in an authoritarian regime. As she spends more time with her commanding officer, Cross, an undeniable attraction sparks between them. The forbidden nature of their relationship and the high stakes of the dystopian world make their chemistry even more intense. Silver Elite is one of the best steamy romance books for readers who love both political intrigue and heart-pounding romance.

Just Our Luck – Denise Williams

In Just Our Luck, Sybil and Kieran are brought together by fate when Sybil loses a lottery ticket after a steamy one-night stand. Kieran returns the ticket to her, and their connection leads to a viral video that boosts Kieran’s struggling bakery’s sales. To keep the momentum going, they agree to fake date, leading to plenty of steamy moments. Williams’s portrayal of likable characters and their deepening attraction makes this a perfect pick for anyone looking for a sweet and spicy romance.

Fan Service – Rosie Danan

In Fan Service, Devin, a former TV star, is transformed into a werewolf after an unexpected event. Alex, a former fan of his show, is the only person who can help him adjust to his new reality. The book contains plenty of negotiated kink and is full of steamy moments that will keep you hooked. For fans of paranormal romance with a touch of humor and a lot of spice, Fan Service is a must-read.

I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I’m Trapped in a Rom-Com – Kimberly Lemming

Kimberly Lemming’s unique and hilarious I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I’m Trapped in a Rom-Com is a scorching hot and hilarious ride. The protagonist, a biologist, crash-lands on an alien planet, where she meets two sex aliens, and together they form a passionate love triangle. Lemming’s rom-coms are always full of humor, heart, and spice, and this one is no exception. If you're looking for a romance that’s quirky, steamy, and full of laughs, I Got Abducted by Aliens and Now I’m Trapped in a Rom-Com is an excellent addition to the best steamy romance books list. The chemistry between the characters is electric, and the humor adds a delightful layer to the intense romance. This book is perfect for readers who love a mix of quirky humor, adventure, and sizzling passion.

Captive Prince – C.S. Pacat

Captive Prince by C.S. Pacat is a standout in the world of steamy romance. It is an emotionally intense and complex story of political intrigue and forbidden love. The book follows Damen, the prince of a conquered kingdom, who is sold into slavery and sent to the court of the enemy. There, he becomes entangled with the ruthless prince, Laurent, whose icy demeanor hides a passionate heart. As the two engage in a dangerous game of power, manipulation, and desire, their relationship turns into a compelling blend of love and conflict. The steamy moments between Damen and Laurent are intense, often laced with tension and raw emotion, making Captive Prince one of the best steamy romance books for fans of slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers dynamics.

Late Bloomer – Mazey Eddings

Late Bloomer by Mazey Eddings is a charming and steamy romance that focuses on a second-chance love story. This book follows Daisy, a woman who's never quite experienced love or intimacy, and Luke, a guy who is trying to navigate his own emotional challenges. As they form a romantic connection, Daisy's journey of self-discovery and intimacy with Luke is both tender and sizzling. The chemistry between the two is undeniable, and their emotional and physical connection makes for a satisfying and steamy read. This book is a must-read for those who enjoy heartwarming, slow-burn romances with a side of steam.